Registered/Certified Substance Abuse Counselor

JWCH Institute • Los Angeles, CA

14d • $48,579 - $52,314

About The Position

The Registered or Certified Substance Abuse Counselor provides counseling services to minority and low-income women, including pregnant and postpartum women, and their children in a residential drug treatment program. The role supports the JWCH mission to improve the health and well-being of underserved communities in Los Angeles County, while meeting Substance Abuse and Prevention Control (SAPC) and Drug Medi-Cal (DMC) program requirements. The Counselor applies knowledge of medication-assisted treatment and harm reduction strategies to support effective substance abuse treatment.

Requirements

• Registered or Certified Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Counselor, with certification from an NCCA-accredited agency such as CADTP or CCAPP, in accordance with California Code of Regulations.
• Two years of experience as a registered drug and alcohol counselor, including one year as a certified counselor.
• Experience with Drug Medi-Cal (DMC) and the Los Angeles County Substance Abuse Prevention Control (SAPC) system.
• Training in trauma-informed treatment and evidence-based approaches, including Matrix, Seeking Safety, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and the Nurturing Parenting Program.
• Proficiency with Electronic Health Recording Systems.
• Skill administering ASAM, ASI, and other substance abuse assessment tools.
• Current NPI and “C” number.
• Valid California driver’s license, proof of insurance, and clean driving record.
• Excellent written, oral, organizational, and documentation skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
• Ability to multitask and work effectively within a team structure.
• Current First Aid/CPR certification, physical exam, and Tuberculosis test results.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Criminal Justice, or Psychology.

Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of up to 15 clients.
• Ensure compliance with SAPC service and documentation requirements.
• Identify and address barriers to treatment, including external factors that hinder progress.
• Conduct weekly individual counseling sessions with each client and schedule follow-up sessions.
• Develop and regularly update each client’s treatment plan (Problem List).
• Conduct weekly care coordination sessions with clients.
• Refer clients for medical, psychiatric, and dental care as needed.
• Use positive clinical approaches to support client retention.
• Apply knowledge of harm reduction and medication-assisted treatment for the R95 population.
• Use appropriate clinical skills to engage and support challenging clients.
• Integrate mindfulness and meditation into group and individual sessions.
• Provide trauma-responsive care throughout treatment.
• Manage crises involving new admissions and coordinate with therapists on responses to mental health crises.
• Facilitate weekly Substance Abuse Education, Relapse Prevention, and Seeking Safety groups, along with other assigned groups.
• Introduce clients to the principles of 12 Step recovery.
• Document all services within 24 hours and submit weekly productivity logs for review.
• Conduct ASAM assessments within 72 hours of admission and coordinate with therapists to finalize medical necessity notes for assigned clients.
• Participate in weekly Case Review meetings and client touch bases.
• Track client services and ensure program compliance.
• Collaborate with a diverse, multidisciplinary team to enhance client care.
• Complete training hours assigned by SAPC and the JWCH Med Trainer.
• Maintain confidentiality and treat others with respect and compassion; discuss patient information only with appropriate program personnel and protect patient identifiers.
• Identify and present positive solutions to challenges, contribute to teamwork, and adapt to changing priorities and workplace requirements.
• Follow departmental guidelines for absences and breaks and adhere to the organizational dress code.
• Provide coverage for other groups and activities as needed.
• Keep workstations and communal areas clean and organized.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.
• Follow organizational safety policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements to maintain a safe environment for patients, staff, and visitors.
• Participate in required safety and compliance training and apply the practices learned.
• Identify, report, and help mitigate workplace hazards, unsafe conditions, and incidents.
• Use equipment, tools, and supplies safely and responsibly.
• Follow infection control, occupational health, and emergency preparedness procedures appropriate to the role.

Benefits

• Competitive pay and benefits for employees working 30 or more hours per week.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Monthly employer-sponsored allowance for health premium assistance.
• Funded Health Savings Account, up to the deductible, for carrier-approved medical expenses.
• Paid time off, including vacation and sick leave, and 13 paid holidays.
• 401(k) Safe Harbor Profit Sharing Plan with employer base contribution and discretionary matching contributions.
• Mileage reimbursement.
• Short- and long-term disability plans.
• Life insurance and AD&D.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed